On Saturday 14^th March 2026, the Center for Teaching and Learning Support, based at the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University, hosted the Kiswahili Primary School Orientation Workshop, aimed at strengthening skills in content and delivery, enhancing assessment competencies, and improving the understanding of the Kiswahili curriculum.

This initiative brought together Kiswahili primary teachers from across the country, affiliated with the umbrella association, CHAWAKISHUMU, with the objective of fostering high-quality Kiswahili teaching in primary schools across Uganda through professional collaboration, resource sharing, and cultural integration.

During the capacity-building workshop, participants listened to the following presentations delivered by experts in the discipline: Kiswahili Curriculum Content by Dr. Boaz Mutungi and Kiswahili Curriculum Delivery by Mr. Micah Bamugyeya. At the end of each presentation, participants engaged in plenary discussions managed by Mr. Joseph Tusingwiire and Dr. Caesar Jjingo, respectively.

Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Dr. Dorothy Ssebowa Kyagaba welcomed the participants to the capacity-building workshop, aimed at redefining the teaching and speaking of Swahili in primary schools and Uganda at large.

“The purpose of this workshop is to learn, reflect, and share insights on Kiswahili curriculum delivery and assessment at primary, secondary, and university levels,” Dr. Kyagaba said.

Dr. Kyagaba stated that a memorandum of understanding was signed between the College of Education and External Studies and CHAWAKISHUMU to collaborate on building the capacity and professional development of Kiswahili teachers, research, and innovation of Kiswahili pedagogy.

Highlighting the mandate of the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support, Dr. Kyagaba articulated its commitment to undertaking innovative approaches through learner-centered and activity-based pedagogical practices.

Dr. Kyagaba reiterated the importance of Kiswahili teachers’ role in helping learners develop language skills, deliver content clearly, and assess learning effectively. She expressed confidence that the facilitators’ expertise and Kiswahili teachers’ shared experiences will improve understanding of the Kiswahili curriculum and strengthen skills in content delivery and assessment competencies.

The National President of Chama Cha Walimu Wa Kiswahili Shule Za Msingi Nchini Uganda (CHAWAKISHUMU), Mr. Joseph Tusingwiire, explained that the association is an inclusive organisation, uniting primary, secondary, and university educators.

According to Mr. Tusingwiire, CHAWAKISHUMU exists to promote high-quality Swahili teaching in primary schools in Uganda through professional collaboration, resource sharing, and cultural integration.

In pursuit of this vision, the association, since its inception in 2012, has undertaken several activities, including the successful organisation of national Swahili music, dance, and drama concerts, showcasing students’ skills in the language through debates and poems

Mr. Tusingwiire called upon Swahili teachers to seize opportunities including participating in workshops, training abroad, and the provision of translation services. He stressed that CHAWAKISHUMU aims to create more opportunities for its members. He called upon teachers to work together to promote Swahili and equally tap into its benefits.

Mr. Tusingwiire acknowledged the government’s rollout of Swahili in secondary schools as a positive development. However, he noted that its impact is limited because the subject is not compulsory up to Senior Four. He therefore urged the government to extend the rollout to primary schools, emphasizing that this would provide learners with a strong foundation in Kiswahili before they progress to secondary education.

In his presentation on Kiswahili Curriculum Content, Dr. Boaz Mutungi revealed that the focus is on equipping learners with practical language skills rather than just grades. “Ours is not about grades but about a learner exhibiting four critical skills in language learning. These include writing, reading, speaking, and listening,” he said. 

The curriculum content revolves around the four key areas namely, reading, writing, listening and speaking, with writing being the highest order. Dr. Mutungi stressed the importance of proper pronunciation, urging students to mind about the pronunciation as they deliver their skills.

The methodologies employed in the curriculum are centred on strengthening these fundamental language fields. He noted that, focusing on these core areas, learners will develop a strong foundation in Swahili, enabling them to communicate effectively. He revealed that the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) is emphasizing this approach to language learning, prioritising practical application over mere academic achievement.

In his presentation, Mr. Micah Bamugyeya highlighted concerns over the delivery of the Kiswahili curriculum, citing that most schools are not prioritising the subject because it is not examinable.

He suggested that this structural issue can be addressed by re-evaluating the subject’s importance in the school curriculum. Mr. Bamugyeya stressed that the lack of emphasis on Kiswahili affects the quality of teaching and learning, urging stakeholders to take action to rectify the situation and ensure the subject receives the necessary support.

Participants called upon school leaders to engage the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) to include Swahili on the list of examinable subjects. “Students have been studying Swahili, and UNEB doesn’t examine them. This is a gap that UNEB should address,” Dr. Nelson Nsereko noted. 

The workshop achieved a significant milestone in enhancing Kiswahili teaching in Uganda, with participants aligning on promoting practical language skills and addressing challenges like the low priority given to the subject in some schools. It also enhanced plans for capacity-building workshops, certification programs, and curriculum review.

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28^th February  2026– On 28^th Feb 2026,  200 students examined by the Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB) were awarded National Diplomas and Certificates during the 7^th graduation ceremony organized by the Centre for Lifelong Learning (CLL) under the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) at Makerere University.

The occasion marked a significant milestone not only for the graduates, but also for the university’s expanding lifelong learning and technical education mandate.

Speakers described the ceremony as a celebration of partnership, and the growing recognition of skills-based education as a driver of national transformation.

The celebration brought onboard graduands, parents and guardians. At the ceremony, the Principal of CEES, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga was represented by Prof. Paul Muyinda Birevu, the  Director of the Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning. The following University officials also graced the ceremony: Dr. Harriet Nabushawo-Dean, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, Dr. Marjorie Batiibwe-Head, Department of Science, Technical and Vocational Education, Dr. Oscar Mugula-National Coordinator, Centre for Lifelong Learning, Dr. Rose Atugonza-former Coordinator of the Centre, and members of staff at the Centre for Lifelong Learning.

Vice Chancellor congratulates UVTAB graduates

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe conveyed his regards, and congratulated the students, the Centre for Lifelong Learning under College of Education and External Studies (CEES), as well as, the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) upon this academic milestone built on partnership, skills development, and lifelong learning.

In a special way, Prof. Nawangwe credited the students, supervisors, and instructors for undertaking the real-life project, which led to the construction of the wall fence at Makerere College School.

The wall fence constructed by students pursuing the National Diploma for Architecture, and Civil Engineering, was unveiled on 12^th November 2025, and handed over to the Head Teacher of Makerere College School, Dr. Martin Muyingo.

A Milestone Built on Sacrifice and Partnership

Addressing the congregation of graduates, parents, guardians, instructors, and invited guests, Dr. Oscar Mugula, the National Coordinator of the Centre for Lifelong Learning, acknowledged the sacrifices made by families.

“Today is not only about certificates and diplomas,” he said. “It is about the journey you have walked — the sleepless nights, the tuition sacrifices, the encouragement, and the belief that education changes lives.”

He thanked parents and guardians for standing by the students throughout their studies, describing their investment in education as one that yields long-term dividends for families and communities.

The graduation ceremony underscored the importance of institutional collaboration. Dr. Mugula extended gratitude to the leadership and management of CEDAT for the strong partnership that has enabled the Centre for Lifelong Learning to train and mentor students effectively. He  commended instructors and trainers whose dedication shaped the graduates’ academic and professional growth.

“Our instructors have not only taught content,” he noted. “They have moulded character, built competence, and instilled discipline.”

Skills and Entrepreneurship are the New Currency

The Principal of CEES, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, in a speech read by Prof. Paul Muyinda Birevu, the Director of the Institute of Open, Distance and e-Learning, emphasized that the qualifications awarded represent more than academic success — they signify practical competence.

“These qualifications certify knowledge, and affirm your ability to apply what you have learned in real-world contexts.”

The Principal reminded graduates that technical and vocational education is inherently practical, designed to solve problems and respond to industry demands.

“You are entering society at a time when skills are the new currency,” he stated. “Uganda needs technicians, innovators, engineers, administrators, planners, and entrepreneurs who can deliver results.”

The graduates received awards in diverse fields, including architecture, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, accountancy, public administration and management, business administration and management, and project planning and management.

Embracing entrepreneurship

Prof. Mugagga called upon the graduates to embrace entrepreneurship. “Entrepreneurship begins with identifying the need of your society/community. I encourage you to master your craft/skill, and learn to work with teams, and develop a positive attitude towards work,” he said.

Graduation as the Beginning of Responsibility

While celebrating academic achievement, speakers cautioned graduates against viewing graduation as the final destination. “Today marks the end of one chapter,” Prof. Mugagga observed, “but it is the beginning of responsibility.”

He urged them to pursue mastery in their respective disciplines, emphasising that competence must go beyond minimum standards. “Be the graduate who says, ‘Give me the task, and I will deliver,’” he challenged.

Graduates were encouraged to build professional identities anchored in integrity, reliability, and innovation. They were advised to maintain professional networks formed during their studies and to continue learning in order to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving global environment.

Dr. Mugula echoed this call, describing the graduates as “designers of change and leaders of tomorrow.” “You have crossed a bridge,” he said. “What lies ahead depends on the choices you make from today.”

Recognized Qualifications and Standards for further education

A key highlight of the ceremony was the reaffirmation that the diplomas and certificates awarded are nationally and internationally recognised under the Government of Uganda through UVTAB.

“The custodian of these awards is the Government of Uganda,” Dr. Mugula emphasized. “These qualifications meet standards required for further education and professional advancement.”

He encouraged graduates not to stop at the diploma or certificate level, but to consider advancing to degree programs locally and internationally. “A new journey begins today,” he said. “Plan for your dream degree. Take yourself to the next level.”

The message resonated strongly with students who had progressed from certificate level to diploma level — a transition celebrated during the ceremony as a testament to determination and growth.

Recognising Academic Excellence

The ceremony also celebrated outstanding performers who graduated with First-Class Diplomas (GPA 4.4–5.0).

Among those recognised were:

Diploma in Public Administration

•       Giibwa Dennise Kivumbi (4.63)

•       Hussein Omar (4.41)

•       Ssentale Peter (4.50)

National Diploma in Business Management

•       Oyella Vivian Mildred (4.48)

National Diploma in Accountancy

•       Nakiboneka Ritah (4.43)

•       Nabaasa Annah (4.65)

•       Olupot Jorem Dominic (4.42)

•       Mulindwa Ashraf (4.53)

National Diploma in Civil Engineering

•       Masaakate Joshua Robinson (4.53)

•       Tamale Arafah (4.51)

•       Kulumba Anwar (4.59)

Their achievement was met with applause from the audience, serving as inspiration to fellow graduates.

Giving Back to the Community

Beyond personal advancement, graduates were urged to remain ambassadors of the Centre for Lifelong Learning. “Most young people out there are not aware of these opportunities,” Dr. Mugula said. “Guide them. Encourage them to seek institutions whose qualifications are recognised.”

He called upon graduates to mentor others, share knowledge, and uplift communities. “That is how we build a stronger society,” he said. “You have come, you have seen, you have experienced. Now help others to benefit.”

The Centre’s motto — “Taking the University to the Communities and bringing the Communities to the University” — was highlighted as a reflection of its outreach philosophy. Established in 1953 as the Department of Extra-Mural Studies, the Centre has evolved into Makerere’s primary unit for community training and lifelong learning initiatives.

Character, Discipline, and Faith

In addition to academic and professional counsel, speakers emphasised moral grounding and discipline.

Graduates were advised to uphold integrity in their workplaces, avoid shortcuts, and resist societal pressures that undermine professionalism. “Your character will sustain your success,” Prof. Muyinda Birevu remarked. “Skills will open doors, but integrity will keep you in the room.”.

A Growing Role in Uganda’s TVET Landscape

The ceremony reflected Uganda’s broader efforts to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). The partnership between Makerere University and UVTAB demonstrates how universities and national assessment bodies can collaborate to expand access to quality, standards-based technical education.

Speakers commended the government for supporting TVET reforms and reaffirmed Makerere’s commitment to inclusive education pathways that serve both traditional and non-traditional learners.

As industries evolve and technology reshapes economies, the demand for competent, adaptable professionals continues to grow. The graduates, drawn from multiple disciplines, are positioned to contribute meaningfully to national development.

Looking Ahead

For the 200 graduates, the ceremony symbolised achievement earned through hard work and perseverance. Yet, as repeatedly emphasised, it also marked a beginning.

They leave equipped with recognised qualifications, practical training, and the encouragement of mentors and families. They carry the responsibility to apply their knowledge ethically, pursue continuous improvement, and uplift their communities.

As the event drew to a close, the central message remained clear: Graduation is not merely a celebration of past effort — it is a launchpad for future impact.

“Go out and seek jobs with confidence — you have the skills,” Prof. Muyinda Birevu told them. “Create jobs with courage — you have the innovation.”

With that charge, applause filled the hall, marking not just the award of diplomas, but the commissioning of a new cohort of skilled professionals ready to transform society.

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24^th February 2026– Makerere University officially commenced its 76th Graduation Ceremony, setting the stage for a four-day celebration of academic excellence scheduled to run until 27th February 2026. The landmark event brought together government and university officials, faculty, staff, graduands, parents and guardians, development partners, and the media, in a vibrant display of achievement. A total of 9,295 graduands were presented by the respective colleges for the conferment of degrees and the award of diplomas and certificates.

On the first day, presided over by the Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga, the congregation at the Freedom Square witnessed Principals, Deputy Principals, Deans and faculty presenting students for graduation from the following colleges: Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Education and External Studies (CEES), Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) and the School of Law.

CEES Graduation Statistics

The College of Education and External Studies (CEES) presented 824 graduands for the conferment of degrees and the award of diplomas. These included 27 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, 106 Master’s degrees, 111 Postgraduate Diplomas, 572 Bachelor’s degrees, and 8 Diplomas—a reflection of the College’s strong postgraduate research profile and its continued investment in advancing professional and teacher education.

CEES champions digital transformation and Competence-Based Education

Addressing the congregation, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, underscored the strategic role of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) in driving the University’s digital and pedagogical transformation. He observed that CEES has remained at the forefront of championing Makerere’s digital agenda, notably through the institutionalisation of the Institute of Open, Distance and eLearning.

“The College of Education and External Studies continues to play a pivotal role in Makerere University’s digital and pedagogical transformation by Championing the digital transformation of Makerere University. In pursuit of digital transformation, Makerere University institutionalised the Institute of Open, Distance, and eLearning effective January 1, 2025. The College, through the Institute of Open, Distance, and eLearning, in collaboration with the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), is implementing a KOICA-funded project aimed at enhancing the distance education environment at Makerere University,” Prof. Nawangwe said.

The Vice Chancellor noted that the initiative reflects Makerere’s deliberate shift towards innovative, technology-enabled learning models designed to expand access, enhance quality, and position the University as a leader in digital higher education in the region.

He explained that the initiative has already yielded significant milestones, including the development and approval of a 10-year Distance Education Master Plan (2025–2035), the construction of a four-storey Open, Distance and eLearning Centre, and the capacity building of academic staff in multimedia e-content production.

He emphasized that these efforts, alongside the ongoing Phase II of the eLearning Initiative supported by the Mastercard Foundation, demonstrate Makerere’s resolve to integrate online and face-to-face learning in expanding access to quality higher education.

Affirming CEES’ growing continental stature, the Vice Chancellor applauded the College for its leadership in advancing Competence-Based Education (CBE) across Africa. He reported that in 2025, CEES successfully coordinated eight partner institutions and secured a prestigious €1 million ERASMUS+ grant to spearhead the institutionalisation of CBE in East and West Africa.

Through the Transitioning Higher Education Regulators and Universities to Competence-Based Education (TRUCE) initiative, he noted, the College is working collaboratively with regulatory bodies, universities, and industry stakeholders to realign teaching methodologies, assessment frameworks, and digital integration towards demonstrable learner competencies that respond to labour-market demands and societal priorities.

Graduates urged on entrepreneurship and employment

To the graduates, Prof. Nawangwe reminded them of the prestige and responsibility that comes with a Makerere degree, “You are graduating with a degree from one of the best universities on earth. We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills that will make you employable or create your own businesses and employ others. Do not despair if you cannot find employment; instead reflect on the immense opportunities around you and rise to the occasion as an entrepreneur. Do not despise humble beginnings. To the graduands of PhDs, you are now global science citizens. Africa expects much from you. Use your degree to transform our Continent.”

Funding of Research and Innovation

The Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga stated that research plays a very vital role in the development of any community. In this regard, the Chancellor thanked the government of Uganda for committing UGX 30 Billion through the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (MakRIF). He lauded the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat-Office of the President for supporting research initiatives at Makerere University aimed at promoting home grown solutions to our various challenges.

The Chancellor called upon the graduates to tap into opportunities at the University to broaden their knowledge on the world, communities and societies.

Government Commits USD 162 million concessional loan for Laboratory and Infrastructural development, orders shift to Competence-Based Education.

The Guest of Honour, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports and First Lady of Uganda, represented by State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, commended Makerere University for its pivotal role in nurturing leaders, sharpening scholars, and giving direction to dreams. She congratulated the University Council, management, staff, and graduands for their dedication, noting that Makerere continues to serve as a model institution for academic excellence and national development.

Addressing the transition to Competence-Based Education, the Minister restated the directive that all higher education institutions must prepare for full implementation of Competence-Based Education and Training by July 2027. She urged Makerere University, and particularly CEES, to lead in curriculum reform, staff training, and infrastructure development to ensure graduates are equipped with practical skills, innovation, and problem-solving abilities.

“As we celebrate today’s achievements, we must also look far to the future. I reiterate a key directive from the Ministry of Education and Sports: all institutions of higher learning must prepare for the full implementation of Competence-Based Education and Training by July 2027. This is not merely a policy change; it is a fundamental shift in how we prepare our graduates. We are moving toward a model that emphasizes practical skills, innovation, and problem-solving. I request the Vice Chancellor and your team to lead the way in curriculum reform, staff training, and infrastructure development to make Competence-Based Education (CBE) a reality,” she said.

The Minister highlighted the Government’s deliberate investments in higher education, particularly in research, innovation, infrastructure, and academic development. She underscored key initiatives including the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (Mak-RIF), which supports high-impact research and innovation addressing national priorities, and the USD 162 million concessional loan for modernizing university infrastructure, including state-of-the-art laboratories and smart classrooms. The minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening higher education through research funding, digital transformation, and strategic partnerships, emphasizing that universities must not only produce graduates but also solution-makers and job creators.

In her message to the graduands, the minister urged graduands to use their degrees to solve problems and create jobs, emphasizing the need for innovators, engineers, healthcare professionals, and educators. She encouraged them to stay adaptable, creative, ethical, and committed to lifelong learning, while seizing opportunities like the Parish Development Model to drive sustainable community transformation.

Commencement Speaker encourages Knowledge with Purpose and Service with Integrity

Delivering the commencement address under the theme “Knowledge with Purpose, Service with Integrity”, Prof. Nicholas Ozor, Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, reminded graduates that Makerere University has long been a beacon of scholarship and a home for thinkers, innovators, reformers, and leaders. From its halls have emerged presidents, jurists, scientists, educators, technologists, and agricultural pioneers whose work has shaped Uganda, the continent, and the world. Prof. Ozor informed graduands of the storied legacy they had joined, marking both the end of one chapter and the beginning of another; one that demands knowledge, courage, creativity, integrity, and service.

“From these halls have emerged presidents, jurists, scientists, educators, technologists, and agricultural pioneers whose ideas have shaped not only Uganda, but the continent and the world. Among those who studied here are former Presidents such as Julius Nyerere, Mwai Kibaki, Milton Obote, Benjamin Mkapa, and Joseph Kabila. Graduates, today you join this storied legacy of a great citadel of learning. This moment did not come cheaply. It was earned through late nights, failed attempts, financial strain, resilience, and persistence. Today we celebrate your achievement—but even more, we recognize your responsibility,” he articulated.

Addressing the CEES graduands, he emphasized that they are custodians of the future, noting that the quality of teachers directly shapes the future of nations. He urged them to never underestimate the power of the classroom, to teach not only for examinations but for understanding, to teach both content and character, and to cultivate critical thinking rather than rote knowledge. He described education as quiet work whose impact echoes across generations.

Beyond CEES, Prof. Ozor delivered key lessons for all graduates, stressing that character, integrity, humility, and resilience will outlast certificates and grades. He encouraged them to embrace lifelong learning, choose purpose over comfort, build character before career, serve something larger than themselves, and believe in Africa by taking initiative to solve its challenges. He pointed out that failure is part of growth, urging them to let it refine rather than define them.

He acknowledged the sacrifices of parents and guardians, noting that their financial, emotional, and spiritual support is embedded in every certificate awarded. Prof. Ozor concluded with a call for graduates to carry the values of Makerere into the world, whether in government, private sector, civil society, academia, or entrepreneurship. He encouraged them to build justice, minds, systems, and sustainable futures, honoring their families, their nation, and the University itself, reminding them that the future is watching and waiting for their contribution.

Photo Credit: Christopher Kaahwa – Communications Practitioner

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